Write three answers to the questions below. Each answer should be between 250-500 words.
-Is Montaigne judicious in his consideration of non-European peoples? How so? Do we rush to make judgments about other cultures and religions based on our own belief systems today? Where?

-Does Cervantes really disdain medieval quest romances? Or is Don Quixote’s sad tale really a commentary on the economically centered modern era?

-Emilia’s speech on marriage is quite famous (Act IV Scene III)—how does her explanation of the hardships of marriage measure up to medieval portrayals of the treatment of women? Give a specific example from an early text (from the syllabus).

-Iago is often cited as Shakespeare’s most frightening villain. Why does he do what he did? Can you imagine a similar situation in the corporate world today? How?

-There are numerous references to black/white, animal imagery, and other derogatory characterizations of Othello based on his race. This is one of the earliest stage portrayals of an inter-racial relationship—based on love—in a society that was staunchly insular (in race, religion, and class). Have we progressed much in modern society? In many cultures, nontraditional relationships are still publicly shamed. Give an example and compare the two.
*Reading Assignments:
Montaigne, Of Cannibals (Vol. C pp. 353-62)
Cervantes (Vol. C pp. 386-408)
Shakespeare, Othello whole play; any version acceptable)